O-Negative donors needed to bolster supply in Raritan Township

New Jersey Blood Services, a division of New York Blood Center is asking for the public’s help to maintain an adequate three-to-five day supply of O-negative blood. People with O-negative blood are known as “universal donors” because their blood can be transfused into anyone. It is found in just six percent of the population, and is often transfused to patients in emergency rooms and trauma situations when there is no time for blood typing.

“Although we have not experienced a widespread shortage as is being reported in other parts of the country, we have noticed an uptick in local demand that may reflect shortages elsewhere. Local patients need our community’s help now to maintain the supply of O-negative blood,” said NYBC Vice President Rob Purvis. “Overall, our supply of blood is strong, and we’re confident of our ability to provide our 200 partner hospitals with whatever they need. But we can’t do it alone, and that’s why we’re asking our donors to roll up their sleeves.”

To donate blood or for information on how to organize a blood drive, call 800-933-2566 or visit nybloodcenter.org.